Apple Music has concluded its countdown of the top 100 albums, crowning “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” as the greatest album of all time. The list, finalized on May 22, represents a modern assessment of music’s most influential albums, curated by Apple Music experts along with a selection of artists and industry professionals.
Lauryn Hill, responding to the accolade, emphasized the collective influence and inspiration behind her work, recognizing the broader community and music scenes that shaped her album. The top ten of the list also featured significant works such as Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” the Beatles’ “Abbey Road,” and Beyoncé’s “Lemonade.”
This curated list marks a shift from AI-driven or purely statistical rankings to a more human-centric approach. It reflects a diverse mix of genres and time periods, emphasizing albums that have shaped the musical landscape over the last century. UK artists notably dominate a substantial portion of the list, highlighting the region’s significant impact on the global music scene.
Apple Music’s approach involved collaboration with music legends and contemporary artists like Pharrell, J Balvin, and others who submitted their personal picks. This communal effort ensured a list that not only reflects critical acclaim but also resonates with the musical tastes and influences of those who shape the music industry today.
The list is intended to spark discussion among music fans and to celebrate the albums that have defined musical eras. By releasing this list, Apple Music aims to inspire listeners to explore a rich library of musical masterpieces, some being rediscovered classics, and others recent gems that continue to influence modern music.
For fans and newcomers alike, Apple Music’s compilation offers an opportunity to experience these influential albums anew, underscoring music’s enduring power to connect and resonate with people across different generations and backgrounds.
Sources
- Apple: Apple Music reveals top 10 albums of all time on 100 Best list
- Vulture: Who’s Responsible for Apple’s Best-Albums List?
- Hypebeast: Apple Music Curates Ultimate List of Best 100 Albums Ever Released
- Pictures can be found on instagram @applemusic